Montana vs South Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Montana ranks #7 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. South Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.6 vs 94.6), has no income tax, and has a 27% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 6.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 43% lower in South Dakota ($8,859 vs. $15,476 in Montana).
- Typical home value is 32% lower in South Dakota ($321,574 vs. $471,746 in Montana).
- Violent crime rate is 27% lower in South Dakota (308 vs. 419 in Montana).
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.3 pts | 75.0#7 of 50 · A | 79.3#3 of 50 · A+ | -4.3 pts | — | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 94.6#22 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +6 pts+7% | 100 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$24,708 · US -$11,758 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$24,708 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$150,172 (+47%) · US $368,697 | $471,746#38 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$150,172+47% | $368,697 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.41 pts · US 8.74% | 7.87%#13 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +1.41 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +112 (+36%) · US 328 | 419#42 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +112+36% | 328 | SD |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,541 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $75,340#35 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | -$1,541-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 85.8%#30 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#25 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,557 · US -33 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | +1,557 | -33 | MT |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Montana or South Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota scores higher overall: 79.3 to 75 out of 100, #3 of 50 against #7. Montana leads 6 of 11 categories, South Dakota leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -18.5 | 15% | 51.5#17 · B+ | 70.0#3 · A+ | -18.5 pts | SD |
| Safety12% of scoregap -10.9 | 12% | 60.9#36 · C | 71.8#25 · B | -10.9 pts | SD |
| Health12% of scoregap +7.2 | 12% | 58.9#22 · B | 51.7#28 · C+ | +7.2 pts | MT |
| Education12% of scoregap +6.5 | 12% | 67.1#12 · B+ | 60.6#25 · B | +6.5 pts | MT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -15.8 | 10% | 68.9#26 · B | 84.7#8 · A | -15.8 pts | SD |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -16.8 | 8% | 59.5#24 · B | 76.3#2 · A+ | -16.8 pts | SD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -6.7 | 7% | 53.6#6 · A | 60.3#4 · A+ | -6.7 pts | SD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.3 | 7% | 58.7#7 · A | 54.4#15 · B+ | +4.3 pts | MT |
| Livability7% of scoregap +19.7 | 7% | 61.9#1 · A+ | 42.2#12 · B+ | +19.7 pts | MT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +25.9 | 6% | 71.7#3 · A+ | 45.8#7 · A | +25.9 pts | MT |
| Environment4% of scoregap +9.6 | 4% | 62.9#6 · A | 53.3#11 · B+ | +9.6 pts | MT |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Montana cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 88.6 vs 94.6 in Montana (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $24,708 more a year in South Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 94.6#22 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +6 pts+7% | 100 | SD |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.5 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96#14 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +0.5 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.40¢ (-3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | -0.40¢-3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.87 (-9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | -$0.87-9% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | SD |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,617 (+75%) · US $15,633 | $15,476#27 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$6,617+75% | $15,633 | SD |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$8,911 | +$26,443costs $48,557 | +$35,354costs $39,647 | -$8,911 | SD |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$9,617 | +$17,000costs $58,000 | +$26,617costs $48,383 | -$9,617 | SD |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$24,708 | -$21,152costs $96,152 | +$3,556costs $71,445 | -$24,708 | SD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$8,671 | +$30,682costs $44,318 | +$39,353costs $35,647 | -$8,671 | SD |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$9,173 | $32,352 | $23,179 | +$9,173 | SD |
| ChildcareGap +$13,234 | $30,952 | $17,718 | +$13,234 | SD |
| UtilitiesGap +$288 | $4,541 | $4,253 | +$288 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$56 | $10,812 | $10,756 | +$56 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$315 | $10,466 | $10,151 | +$315 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,641 | $7,029 | $5,388 | +$1,641 | SD |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Montana or South Dakota?
South Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.46% vs 7.87%. Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.41 pts · US 8.74% | 7.87%#13 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +1.41 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.9 pts · US 5.46% | 5.9%#30 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.35 pts · US 1.02% | 0.79%#21 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | -0.35 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -6.11 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#2 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | -6.11 pts | 6.66% | MT |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Montana or South Dakota?
Homes cost 47% more in Montana: a typical home value of $471,746 in Montana vs $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $119,850 of income in Montana and $90,326 in South Dakota; the median household earns $75,340 and $76,881.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$150,172 (+47%) · US $368,697 | $471,746#38 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$150,172+47% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#28 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.2% | SD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$137 (+11%) · US $1,948 | $1,426#10 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$137+11% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$29,524 (+33%) · US $100,006 | $119,850#38 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$29,524+33% | $100,006 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.1x (+50%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#47 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | +2.1x+50% | 4.6x | SD |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| MT | SD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,427 | $1,654 |
| Income needed vs. median | +59% | +18% |
| Five-year change | +25% | +24.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Billings | Sioux Falls |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Montana or South Dakota?
Median household income is about the same, $75,340 in Montana and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 3.3% and 2.1%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Montana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 8.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$1,541 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $75,340#35 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | -$1,541-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.3%#9 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap -$10,903 (-17%) · US $64,333 | $53,889#42 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | -$10,903-17% | $64,333 | SD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#21 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | MT |
| Population growthGap -0.23 pts · US +0.51% | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.23 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | MT | SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $128,043$115,239 in Billings | $141,728$124,721 in Sioux Falls | SD |
| Software Developers | $116,186$104,567 in Billings | $124,314$109,396 in Sioux Falls | SD |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $58,723$52,851 in Billings | $63,552$55,926 in Sioux Falls | SD |
| Registered Nurses | $74,941$67,447 in Billings | $79,282$69,768 in Sioux Falls | SD |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $51,552$46,397 in Billings | $55,730$49,042 in Sioux Falls | SD |
| Civil Engineers | $84,653$76,188 in Billings | $88,719$78,073 in Sioux Falls | SD |
| Secondary School Teachers | $60,323$54,291 in Billings | $63,716$56,070 in Sioux Falls | SD |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $199,317$179,385 in Billings | $202,091$177,840 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $50,682$45,614 in Billings | $53,188$46,805 in Sioux Falls | SD |
| Accountants & Auditors | $74,913$67,422 in Billings | $76,534$67,350 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $68,716$61,844 in Billings | $70,181$61,759 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $49,906$44,915 in Billings | $48,506$42,685 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Electricians | $57,082$51,374 in Billings | $55,802$49,106 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $47,868$43,081 in Billings | $48,902$43,034 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $44,668$40,201 in Billings | $43,748$38,498 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $63,372$57,035 in Billings | $62,577$55,068 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $31,814$28,633 in Billings | $32,119$28,265 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $40,154$36,139 in Billings | $40,411$35,562 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $92,892$83,603 in Billings | $93,043$81,878 in Sioux Falls | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $90,166$81,149 in Billings | $90,123$79,308 in Sioux Falls | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Montana safer than South Dakota?
South Dakota is safer: 308 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,449 and 1,312 per 100,000.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +112 (+36%) · US 328 | 419#42 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +112+36% | 328 | SD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +136 (+10%) · US 1,535 | 1,449#26 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +136+10% | 1,535 | SD |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Whitefish, MT176 violent per 100K
- Brandon, SD46 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Montana or South Dakota?
Montana scores higher for education (#12 of 50 vs #25), with high school graduation rates of 85.8% and 82.1%. Montana scores higher for health (#22 vs #28); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Montana and 77.3 in South Dakota.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 279#10 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#11 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 85.8%#30 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#25 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -6 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#10 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -6 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.7 pts · US 7.6% | 8.8%#36 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 7.6% | SD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -8 pts (-23%) · US 38.8 | 27#3 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | -8 pts-23% | 38.8 | MT |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Whitefish, MTeducation score 92
- Brandon, SDeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Montana #12, South Dakota #25. Health: Montana #22, South Dakota #28.
Are more people moving from Montana to South Dakota, or from South Dakota to Montana?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 396 people (±254) moving from Montana to South Dakota and 672 (±598) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +5,404 (+34%) | 21,390#41 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +5,404+34% | MT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +3,847 (+27%) | 18,294#9 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +3,847+27% | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,557 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | +1,557 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 | +2.7#6 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | +1.1 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,367 (+7%) | $79,110#25 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | +$5,367+7% | MT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,272 (+2%) | $65,164#40 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$1,272+2% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.3 | +5.6#6 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | +3.3 | MT |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Montana or South Dakota?
Montana is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; South Dakota is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, and small business; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +4 places | #10score 79.4 | #6score 81 | +4 places | SD |
| RetireesGap +7 places | #10score 76.8 | #3score 82.8 | +7 places | SD |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #4score 76.6 | #2score 83.3 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +4 places | #5score 70.2 | #1score 81.7 | +4 places | SD |
| Small BusinessGap +9 places | #10score 71 | #1score 87.4 | +9 places | SD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -6 places | #2score 81.7 | #8score 68.2 | -6 places | MT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesSouth Dakota (#6 vs #10)
- RetireesSouth Dakota (#3 vs #10)
- Remote WorkersEven (#4 vs #2)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Dakota (#1 vs #5)
- Small BusinessSouth Dakota (#1 vs #10)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMontana (#2 vs #8)
Which cities stand out in Montana and South Dakota?
Montana has 20 tracked cities and South Dakota has 20; the largest are Billings and Sioux Falls. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Billings119,434 people | Sioux Falls201,469 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bozemanscore 64.2 | Brandonscore 70 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Whitefish176 violent per 100K | Brandon46 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Buttecost index 91.6 | Dakota Dunescost index 86.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Bozemanwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Sioux Fallswalkability 12.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bozemancounty median AQI 11 | Pierrecounty median AQI 18 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Whitefish92% graduation rate | Brandon98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Belgrademedian income $97,328 | Dakota Dunesmedian income $136,125 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Sidney+2.7% growth | Tea+4.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Montana and South Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Montana carries AA+ credit rating and South Dakota AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -27 pts · US 29.34% | 53%#9 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -27 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.3 (-25%) · US 29.6 | 49.8#44 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -16.3-25% | 29.6 | MT |
| Public land shareGap +24.5 pts · US 17.16% | 29.9%#11 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +24.5 pts | 17.16% | MT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1 min · US 25.2 min | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +1 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#30 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | MT |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 11.7%#30 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | MT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 91.5%#39 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#20 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US 12.39% | 10.3%#24 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -27 pts · US 74.3% | 73%#27 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -27 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$410 (+18%) · US $3,506 | $2,750#23 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$410+18% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -2.6 pts | +4.66% | SD |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Montana AA+, South Dakota AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Montana vs South Dakota: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Montana is ahead on 14 of 51, South Dakota on 25, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MontanaMT | South DakotaSD | GapMT−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +209,600 (+22%) · US 6.8 million | 1.1 million#43 of 50 | 935,094#46 of 50 | +209,600+22% | 6.8 million | MT |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,541 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $75,340#35 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | -$1,541-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.2 pts · US 3.95% | 3.3%#9 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| Population growthGap -0.23 pts · US +0.51% | +0.63%#16 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.23 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$10,903 (-17%) · US $64,333 | $53,889#42 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | -$10,903-17% | $64,333 | SD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.7 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#21 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +1.91% | MT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +112 (+36%) · US 328 | 419#42 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +112+36% | 328 | SD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +136 (+10%) · US 1,535 | 1,449#26 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +136+10% | 1,535 | SD |
| High school graduation rateGap +3.7 pts · US 85.62% | 85.8%#30 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 85.62% | MT |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 239#20 of 50 | 240#11 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 279#10 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 217#12 of 50 | 214#30 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#11 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap 0.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#25 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | 0.0 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -6 pts · US 34.03% | 31%#10 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -6 pts | 34.03% | MT |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.7 pts · US 7.6% | 8.8%#36 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 7.6% | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$150,172 (+47%) · US $368,697 | $471,746#38 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$150,172+47% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.5 pts · US +1.2% | +2%#28 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.2% | SD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$137 (+11%) · US $1,948 | $1,426#10 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$137+11% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$29,524 (+33%) · US $100,006 | $119,850#38 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$29,524+33% | $100,006 | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 94.6#22 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +6 pts+7% | 100 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.1x (+50%) · US 4.6x | 6.3x#47 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | +2.1x+50% | 4.6x | SD |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.40¢ (-3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | -0.40¢-3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.87 (-9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | -$0.87-9% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.10 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | +$0.10+3% | $3.32/gal | SD |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.5 pts (+1%) · US 100 | 96#14 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +0.5 pts+1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,617 (+75%) · US $15,633 | $15,476#27 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$6,617+75% | $15,633 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.41 pts · US 8.74% | 7.87%#13 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +1.41 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.9 pts · US 5.46% | 5.9%#30 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.35 pts · US 1.02% | 0.79%#21 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | -0.35 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -6.11 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#2 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | -6.11 pts | 6.66% | MT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#20 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US 12.39% | 10.3%#24 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -27 pts · US 74.3% | 73%#27 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -27 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$410 (+18%) · US $3,506 | $2,750#23 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$410+18% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#21 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -2.6 pts | +4.66% | SD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -8 pts (-23%) · US 38.8 | 27#3 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | -8 pts-23% | 38.8 | MT |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -27 pts · US 29.34% | 53%#9 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -27 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -16.3 (-25%) · US 29.6 | 49.8#44 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -16.3-25% | 29.6 | MT |
| Public land shareGap +24.5 pts · US 17.16% | 29.9%#11 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +24.5 pts | 17.16% | MT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1 min · US 25.2 min | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +1 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#30 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | MT |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 11.7%#30 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | MT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 91.5%#39 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +5,404 (+34%) · US 78,682 | 21,390#41 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +5,404+34% | 78,682 | MT |
| Households moving outIRSGap +3,847 (+27%) · US 78,715 | 18,294#9 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +3,847+27% | 78,715 | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,557 · US -33 | +3,096#18 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | +1,557 | -33 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.1 · US +0.4 | +2.7#6 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | +1.1 | +0.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$5,367 (+7%) · US $77,690 | $79,110#25 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | +$5,367+7% | $77,690 | MT |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,272 (+2%) · US $77,024 | $65,164#40 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$1,272+2% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.3 · US +1.1 | +5.6#6 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | +3.3 | +1.1 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$24,708 · US -$11,758 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$24,708 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$8,911 · US +$31,418 | +$26,443#38 of 50 | +$35,354#15 of 50 | -$8,911 | +$31,418 | SD |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$8,671 · US +$35,970 | +$30,682#37 of 50 | +$39,353#17 of 50 | -$8,671 | +$35,970 | SD |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Montana and South Dakota numbers say when read together.
South Dakota ranks higher overall
South Dakota leads 5 of the 11 categories to Montana's 6, with 0 even; Montana is ahead on outdoor access and livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Montana is ahead on 14 and South Dakota on 25.
South Dakota is cheaper day to day
South Dakota's cost of living index is 88.6 against 94.6 in Montana (US = 100). The typical home costs $471,746 in Montana and $321,574 in South Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,152 a year after typical costs in Montana and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
South Dakota takes a smaller share in taxes
Montana collects 7.87% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack); South Dakota collects 6.46% (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
South Dakota is safer
Median household income is $75,340 in Montana and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 3.3% and 2.1%. Violent crime runs 419 per 100,000 residents in Montana and 308 in South Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
396 people moved from Montana to South Dakota and 672 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
South Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, Montana ranks #10 of 50 and South Dakota #6; for retirees, Montana ranks #10 and South Dakota #3.
Montana vs South Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Montana or South Dakota better to live in?
Montana ranks #7 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. South Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.6 vs 94.6), has no income tax, and has a 27% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 6.
Is Montana cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper than Montana: cost of living index 88.6 vs 94.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,152 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Montana, and +$3,556 in South Dakota. The typical home value is $471,746 in Montana and $321,574 in South Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Montana or South Dakota?
South Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.46% of income in state and local taxes vs 7.87% in Montana. Montana's top income tax rate is 5.9%, its effective property tax rate 0.79% and its combined sales tax 0%; South Dakota's are zero, 1.14% and 6.11%.
Is Montana safer than South Dakota?
South Dakota is safer: 308 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana, per the FBI. Montana ranks #42 of 50 for violent crime and South Dakota #28. Property crime is 1,449 per 100,000 in Montana and 1,312 in South Dakota. The safest tracked cities are Whitefish, MT, and Brandon, SD.
Are homes more expensive in Montana or South Dakota?
Homes are 47% more expensive in Montana: the typical home value is $471,746 in Montana and $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $119,850 of household income in Montana and $90,326 in South Dakota, against median incomes of $75,340 and $76,881.
Do people earn more in Montana or South Dakota?
Montana and South Dakota pay about the same: median household income is $75,340 vs $76,881, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.3% in Montana and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Montana's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 0 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 8, with 12 even.
Are more people moving from Montana to South Dakota or from South Dakota to Montana?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 396 people (±254) moving from Montana to South Dakota and 672 (±598) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Montana or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #3 of 50 on the retiree index vs #10 for Montana. Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack; South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$30,682 left after typical costs in Montana and +$39,353 in South Dakota.
Which is better for families, Montana or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for families: #6 of 50 on the families index vs #10 for Montana. Center-based infant care costs $15,476 a year in Montana and $8,859 in South Dakota. High school graduation rates are 85.8% and 82.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,152 after typical costs in Montana and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
Is South Dakota better than Montana?
Yes: South Dakota ranks higher than Montana overall, #3 of 50 vs #7, with a composite score of 79.3 to 75. South Dakota leads 5 of 11 categories and Montana leads 6, including outdoor access and livability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.